to us, in gratitude

-a journey entry from when we were falling in love. 2010.

Just another day of you casually being my hero.

The other day, after weeks of talking about how we don't like how much we use our phones, we decidedly put them down and started calling each other out every time one of us picked one up again. It was surprising (but also not super surprising) how often we'd absent-mindedly decide to check something, or how we'd want to pick them up as soon as our attention was no longer held by whatever it was just held by. It was harder than we thought it'd be. But we did it. And...well, the results speak for themselves. We had a fantastic, full day together - which was no small feat, as this was after work and class. We went to the gym, then to D&D (and had a blast as we always do), then came home and talked for hours. Laughed for hours. Forgot our devices. But the best best part was right before we fell asleep. As we snuggled down in bed, all limbs intertwined, we realized that neither of us wanted to actually go to sleep because we were still having such a good time. It almost reminded me of playing with friends as a child - how it would be time to go, but then you'd have an impromptu sleepover because no one was ready for the fun to end. Six and a half years in, we fought sleep in each other's arms, neither of us ready for the fun to end. And I loved every second of it. (Note: We still use our devices, although we're still trying to use them less. It's most difficult for him when a new video game comes out, and for me when I discover new art programs. Then we cuddle on the couch while playing in our respective worlds, but giving into the machines nonetheless!)

-things John says

-things John says

Since making this tumblr, I've alternated between forgetting about it and wanting to delete it (so much cheese, amiright?). But tonight, after you fell asleep with your head on my lap in front of the tv and our Christmas tree, I remembered it. And I thought, thank goodness, because I need to remember this. All of it, with you. The cozy cuddle puddles that are always topped with a kitten, the no-flys, how I can play with your beard without waking you up. And how after I put you to bed, in our tiny house with all of its sparkling lights, I told you I would be joining you in a minute, and you mumbled sleepily, with eyes closed, "okay, but don't go opening your presents." How you make my heart melt and soar at the same time. I'm glad I didn't delete it. Anything to help me keep these memories near.

That time we got all excited making an autumn candle forest.

<3